translator: we can't say there are no risks in indonesia and thailand, but compared with china, the business environment, in these countries is relatively more stable. >> last year's massive floods in thailand forced many japanese auto plants to shut down, but their operations have resumed. toyota and nissan plan to expand production in thailand. >>> myanmar emerged from nearly five decades of military rule last year and introduced democratic reforms. now it's becoming a magnet for international investment. china is leading the way. thailand and south korea are also major investors. japan lags behind. but japanese executives are rushing to close the gap. nhk world's satoru aoyama reports from yangon. >> reporter: he's in charge of overseas operations for an osaka-based logistics company. up to now, the company has used a local contractor to do business in myanmar. but executives think it might be time to set up shop. they sent him to size up conditions in yangon. >> translator: the country is full of energy. there is a sense of optimism. people believe tomorrow will be better than today. >> reporter: th